Rodents make up the largest group of mammals living worldwide. These animals come in many sizes and shapes; some weigh a few ounces, and some weigh hundreds of pounds! Luckily, most rodents live outside, away from people, in rainforests, deserts, and densely wooded areas.
While the vast majority of rodents don’t cause issues for people, some have adapted to living near people. Rodents like mice and rats have become regular visitors to our property and frequently make themselves home in our Clarksburg, Maryland, houses.
To help you keep these common household pests from becoming permanent members of your household, Womack Pest Control has created this comprehensive guide. Read here to understand better how to keep rodents in Clarksburg out of your home.
Identifying An Infestation: How To Spot Signs Of Rodents In Your Home
Things like harsh weather, lack of food, predators, and the promise of safe shelter drive rodents into our homes. If rodents are inside your Clarksburg home, you will likely begin to spot their dark, pellet-like droppings, gnaw marks on cabinets and furniture, and holes in walls, food containers, cardboard boxes, and fabrics.
Other telltale signs of rodent infestation are noticing a musty odor in your home, hearing scratching noises behind walls or above ceilings at night, and spotting that pets are paying particular attention to certain areas of your home.
A Rodent Infestation Is A Serious Risk To Your Health
Rodents pose significant risks to our health. The longer rodents are allowed to use our properties as a refuge, the more exposure you and your family will have to them and the bacteria, pathogens, and parasites they carry and spread.
Some of the most common health risks associated with rodents include:
- Rodent-born illnesses like hantavirus (respiratory illness), salmonellosis (foodborne disease), and leptospirosis (bacterial infection)
- Vector-born illnesses like Lyme disease that are carried and spread by parasites like fleas and ticks that live on rodents
- Allergies and asthma attacks triggered by rodents’ shed fur and the build-up of urine and excrement
Other problems associated with rodents include food contamination, property damage, fires caused by chewing through electrical wires, and unpleasant odors.
Why DIY Rodent Control Often Fails
Partnering with a professional is the most effective way to eliminate and control rodents and other unwanted houseguests. One of the biggest reasons DIY rodent control is ineffective is that people underestimate rodents’ intelligence level. These pests are curious, smart, and have an excellent sense of smell. They easily suss out where you have placed baits and traps and learn how to avoid them while still ensuring they have access to food, water, and their nest.
Another big reason DIY rodent control fails is that people don’t realize the scope of their rodent infestation. If you spot one rodent in your home, there are likely many more you aren’t seeing. Often, people trap one or two mice and think the issue is solved. Additionally, DIY rodent control only addresses the rodents currently in your home. It doesn’t help to address how rodents enter your home and what attracts them.
The Most Effective Rodent Control For Your Home
Professional rodent control is the best solution to any rodent problem. Whether you have a family of four living in your home or a large extended family of rodents, our pest management specialists will solve your rodent problem!
At Womack Pest Control, we know how to safely remove rodents from Clarksburg properties and implement ongoing strategies to stop the future return of these dangerous pests. To learn more about rodent control in Clarksburg, please reach out today! We are here to exceed your expectations and provide peace of mind by offering the best rodent control near you!